Practical signs to watch for at each age — and what to do if any of them sound like your child. From Divit MindSpace's speech-language team in Bangalore.
Communication develops in patterns, not on a strict schedule. By 12 months, most children babble and respond to their name. By 18 months, many say a few clear words and understand simple instructions. By age 2, short phrases and a rapidly growing vocabulary are common. Wider variation is normal — but persistent gaps are worth a closer look.
Common signs that warrant an assessment include: few or no words by 18 months, not responding to their name consistently, difficulty following simple requests, frustration at not being understood, or trouble producing specific sounds past age 4. Stuttering that persists or worsens after age 4 is also worth evaluating.
Speech therapy also supports social-communication: taking turns in conversation, understanding tone, making and keeping eye contact, and engaging in pretend play. Difficulties here — especially when combined with sensory or behavioral differences — are often part of a broader picture that speech therapy can help with.
Parents usually notice something first. If you have a gut feeling, book a speech-language assessment — it's non-invasive, the child often enjoys the activities, and you'll leave with clarity either way. Early support is significantly easier than late catch-up.
A speech-language assessment at Divit MindSpace includes a parent interview, standardized testing, observation of interaction and play, and review of any reports you bring. You'll receive a report, a diagnosis if applicable, and a tailored therapy plan.
Speech therapy at our Kasavanahalli center is play-based and individualized. Parents are partners — the therapist gives you strategies to use at home so progress keeps happening between sessions.
